7 Health Benefits and 6 Risks of Eating Bananas

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Benefit 7: Cancer prevention

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Leukemia, a type of cancer, is a disease in which abnormal numbers of lymphocytes proliferate. A laboratory study suggests that lectins found in bananas may be effective in preventing the proliferation of leukemic lymphocytes.

As the unstable molecules called free radicals increase in the body, cells are damaged and can lead to cancer. Meanwhile, lectins, which are also antioxidants, work to eliminate free radicals. Bananas are also rich in vitamin C, a nutrient with excellent antioxidant properties.

Risk 1: Constipation

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Although bananas are an excellent food, they can be harmful to your health if you eat them in excess and all at once. Note that there are six risks associated with eating the fruit in excess, which are described as follows: First, it tends to cause constipation.

Unripe bananas contain high levels of indigestible starch, and eating too many bananas can slow down bowel function. In addition, the pectin in bananas dehydrates the intestines. Its components solidify the stool and create an internal environment conducive to further constipation.

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Text by Yamato Aoba